G7 Summit: PM Modi gifts Nagauri Ashwagandha, Ramban honey and Banarsi silk stoles to world leaders
Paris/New Delhi, June 19 Continuing with his efforts to highlight India's growing leadership in advancing traditional medicine as an evidence-based, integrated and people-centred component of global health systems, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Nagauri Ashwagandha to world leaders during the recently-concluded G7 Summit in France.
Nagauri Ashwagandha is a high-quality variety of Ashwagandha grown in Rajasthan, especially the Nagaur district, known for its rich withanolide content due to its arid climate and sandy soil. Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, it holds a strong cultural and agricultural significance.
In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is valued as a Rasayana herb that supports vitality, mental clarity, immunity, and overall well-being. Derived mainly from its roots, it is widely studied today for its adaptogenic and health-supporting properties.
Nagauri Ashwagandha also supports rural livelihoods and represents the integration of traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern scientific research and global wellness trends.
PM Modi's other gifts to the global leaders attending the G7 Summit at Evian also included Ramban honey and Banarsi silk stoles.
Ramban honey is a natural honey produced in the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, an area rich in Himalayan flora and wildflowers that give it a distinctive taste and nutritional profile.
Valued in Ayurveda and traditional wellness systems, it is known for its natural antioxidants, enzymes, and bioactive compounds. Produced by local beekeepers using traditional, environmentally sensitive practices, Ramban Honey reflects the region's biodiversity, cultural heritage, and long-standing beekeeping traditions rooted in harmony with nature.
Banarasi silk stole is a traditional handwoven textile from Varanasi, crafted from fine silk and decorated with intricate zari work. Known for its elegant texture and detailed motifs inspired by nature, it reflects centuries of refined weaving techniques passed down through generations.
Also recognised with a GI tag, Banarasi silk represents one of India's most prestigious textile traditions. It also supports the livelihoods of weaving communities and stands as a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and artistic continuity.
India was invited as a partner country to the 52nd G7 Summit where Prime Minister Modi engaged with world leaders on issues of importance to India as well as to the Global South. This was India's 13th participation at the G7 Summit and Prime Minister Modi's seventh consecutive participation at the summit.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Love how they highlighted the GI tags—Nagauri Ashwagandha from Rajasthan and Banarasi silk from Varanasi. This isn't just about gifting; it's about telling the world that India's traditional knowledge is scientifically backed. Hope this boosts exports for our farmers and weavers! 💪
Interesting choices. The emphasis on traditional medicine and handicrafts is a unique way to build cultural bridges at a G7 summit. I wonder how the other leaders received the Ashwagandha—it's becoming quite popular in wellness circles globally.
While the sentiment is nice, I wish we'd focus more on substantive outcomes from these summits rather than gift giving. 🤔 Yes, it's good PR for Indian products, but our negotiators need to bring home real benefits for the Global South on climate finance and trade. Just saying...
The detail about Ramban honey from Chenab Valley is beautiful! 🍯 That region has such rich biodiversity. Also, Banarasi silk stoles are seriously elegant—each one tells a story of generations of craftsmanship. This is how we should promote 'Make in India' globally. Very proud of our heritage! 🌸
Nice gesture but honestly, why are we gifting foreign leaders what many Indians can't afford? Banarasi silk is expensive and artisan communities still struggle. Let's first ensure these products benefit the actual producers fairly, then showcase them. Otherwise it's just optics.
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